Beyond oil, 2025 Energy Conference promises a crucial, inclusive gathering to unite industries

As the countdown begins to the highly anticipated Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, set for February 18-21, 2025, excitement is now fever pitch.

The 2025 edition promises to be a transformative event that emphasises inclusion across various sectors, ensuring that all stakeholders – from policymakers to youth – have a voice in the future of Guyana’s energy transition and development.

In an interview with the News Room on Monday, the conference’s Chief Executive Officer Kiana Wilburg shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, which is expected to attract over 7,000 attendees and feature more than 180 booths.

“We’re nearly sold out on our booths, and limited spaces are available. I invite everyone interested to participate in what is expected to be the largest event in our country’s history,” Wilburg stated.

One of the key features of year’s conference is ensuring there is a place for nearly every stakeholder in industries beyond oil and gas.

“If you’re in education, health, AI, agriculture, or infrastructure, this conference is for you.

“Educational institutions can engage directly with companies to understand their recruitment needs for the next five years.

“Similarly, health sector stakeholders can explore the increasing healthcare demands that come with industrial growth,” Wilburg said as she emphasised the importance of diverse participation.

She noted too that even small companies can benefit immensely.

“This is the perfect place for smaller businesses to increase their brand awareness and engage in speed networking with 180 companies that are integral to Guyana’s economic development.”

Recognising the significance of youth involvement, the 2025 conference will actively include younger generations in its discussions too.

“Youth involvement is one of our key objectives,” Wilburg noted.

“We want to ensure that not only those in boardrooms but also those in classrooms feel heard in our national conversations,” she added.

To foster this engagement, the conference has launched its inaugural essay competition, offering a scholarship of $10,000 for participants from the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) levels.

“We’re excited to see the submissions already flowing in. This initiative is just one way we are adding a layer of involvement for youths at our conference,” Wilburg explained.

The 2025 conference is set to be particularly significant as it coincides with Guyana’s general and regional elections, positioning it as a crucial platform for discussing the country’s investment policies and future directions.

Key topics will include the anticipated start of the Yellowtail development, which is projected to elevate oil production beyond 800,000 barrels per day.

With a focus on knowledge sharing and thought leadership, the conference aims to catalyse conversations around collaboration, investment, and procurement opportunities across various sectors.

Wilburg opined, “This is going to be one of the most exciting and impactful conferences yet, bringing together all stakeholders for a richer dialogue about the future of our energy sector.”